Absolutely not! You're more than welcome to join us simply for the experience of spending several days exploring the beautiful Eastern Sierra on horseback. Fishing is completely optional! Just keep in mind that our daily rides will take us to lakes and streams specifically chosen for fishing, so there will be plenty of downtime while others cast their lines. You're welcome to relax, explore the surrounding scenery, take photos, or simply soak in the beauty of the wilderness!

No, this is not a guided fishing trip. Our experienced wranglers will lead us on horseback to alpine lakes and streams where golden trout can be found, but there will not be a dedicated fishing guide accompanying us.

Guests are responsible for bringing their own fishing equipment and having a basic understanding of how to use it. All fishing will be done independently, allowing you to enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Guests are responsible for bringing their own fishing gear, including rods, reels, tackle, and any other equipment they may need. You will also need a valid California fishing license.

Please make sure your fishing equipment and tackle comply with all current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for the waters we'll be visiting (Cottonwood Lakes), as some areas may have restrictions on bait, hooks, and fishing methods.

Be sure to arrive with a basic understanding of your equipment and how to use it.

Yes! All guests ages 16 and older who plan to fish must have a valid California fishing license. California offers 1-day, 2-day, and 10-day nonresident sport fishing licenses, so you can choose the option that best fits your trip. Licenses can be purchased online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before your adventure. Fishing licenses are not included in the trip cost.

**Guests who do not have a valid fishing license will not be permitted to participate in the fishing portion of the trip.**

• Professional photography throughout the trip! I'll be documenting our adventure along the way, capturing everything from horseback riding and fishing to candid moments around camp and the incredible scenery. You'll receive professional photos of yourself enjoying the experience, giving you beautiful memories to look back on for years to come.
• Guided horseback rides through California's beautiful Golden Trout Wilderness
• Horses and all necessary riding tack
• Pack mules to transport fishing gear and supplies
• Four nights of camping accommodations (tent included).
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the trip
• Opportunities to fish for native golden trout in alpine lakes and streams

We'll be camping at Cottonwood Pack Station, which will serve as our home base throughout the trip. Tents will be provided for guests, but you're also welcome to bring your own tent or choose to sleep in your vehicle if you prefer. We'll return to camp each evening after our adventures, so there's no need to pack up and move camp each day!

The cost is $2,250 per person.

Deposit: A $500 deposit is required upon registration to secure your spot & confirm your guest reservation with the pack station.

Remaining Balance 60 days before the trip start date: Due by July 2, 2027

This is a women-only adventure designed for women who love the outdoors, horses, fishing, and a little adventure! You don't need to be an experienced horseback rider or an expert angler to join us. Whether you're new to fishing or have been doing it for years, you're welcome!

Guests that intend on fishing should have a basic understanding of how to use their own fishing equipment, as fishing instruction will not be provided. Come solo or bring a friend! This trip is all about connecting with like-minded women, exploring the wilderness, and having a good time!

The camp cook will make accommodations ahead of time for any dietary needs. Once booked, I will have everyone fill out a form for the pack station.

240lbs

Prior horseback riding experience is helpful but not required. Horses/mules and wilderness travel are inherently risky, including the possibility of serious injury. By registering, you accept all risks. Helmets are provided.

All of our horseback rides will be at a walking pace. Due to the rugged, rocky, and sometimes steep mountain terrain, riding at faster speeds is not safe or practical. Our horses are experienced in navigating these trails, and keeping a steady walking pace allows everyone to enjoy the scenery, take in the experience, and travel safely through the wilderness.

Everyone will get a horn bag to put their lunch and snacks inside. Bring your water bottle and rain gear (rain gear will be tied to your saddle). No backpacks, fanny packs, purses or sacks on horses for safety purposes.

All fishing gear will be safely packed on mules.

If you want to take photos/videos on your phone while riding, be sure to have some kind of strap so if you drop your phone, it stays with you.

Each saddle is equipped with leather ties behind the seat to secure your rain gear. Simply roll it up tightly, like you would a towel, and use the ties to fasten it behind you. This keeps your rain gear easily accessible in case the weather changes while we're out riding.

I have put together a packing list below and I will also email it to you once your spot is booked.

Essentials: sleeping bag, sleeping pad, water bottle (filtered water bottles like Brita are great), waterproof rain gear, body wipes. Suggested items on a packing list below.

Minimum 35-degree rating recommended. If you get cold easily, bring a 20-degree rating or better.

I love my 20 degree Zenbivy quilt. I have also used my 35 degree Nemo Forte. Both options have worked well for me on these trips.

We'll be spending our time at elevations between 10,000 and 11,000 feet above sea level. Because of the high altitude, we strongly recommend arriving in the area at least 1–2 days before the trip to give your body time to acclimate, especially if you're coming from a lower elevation. Staying hydrated, taking it easy upon arrival, and allowing yourself time to adjust can help reduce your risk of altitude sickness.

If you have a history of altitude sickness or any medical conditions that may be affected by high elevations, please consult your healthcare provider before booking.

While our rides will take us through beautiful mountain terrain at high elevations, being at 10,000–11,000 feet doesn't necessarily mean you'll be riding along steep cliffs or exposed drop-offs. However, some trails may be narrow, uneven, or intimidating for those with a fear of heights. Your comfort and safety are important, and I'd rather you have a clear understanding of what to expect before committing to the adventure.

If you're afraid of heights, please reach out before booking so we can discuss your concerns!

Only small phone or point-and-shoot cameras while stopped. Hands must stay on reins while riding.

Yes, a personal tent is allowed. You may also sleep in your vehicle.

There are 2 options. One is on the pack station grounds, think “shed” with a toilet inside. The other is located inside of a building at the campground just a short walk from the pack station.

There is a spring with clean drinking water at the pack station. Bring a personal water filter for filling up on day rides. Personally, I love my Brita water bottle with the filter built right in. You can find the exact one I use in my Amazon Store Front link.

Daytime temperatures generally range from 55–70°F, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 30–40°F or colder. Mountain weather can change quickly, and rain, thunderstorms, or even snow are possible. Bring layers (base, mid, waterproof outer). Hat/beanie, gloves.

Little to none. Starlink might be available for wifi for emergencies but do not depend on it being connected.

Some saddle soreness is normal, especially if you're not accustomed to spending extended periods on horseback. We recommend wearing padded riding shorts for added comfort if you're worried.

For safety reasons, Cottonwood Pack Station does not permit guests to use padded seat cushions on their saddles.

The rugged terrain and high elevations can be challenging for animals that aren't accustomed to these conditions so unfortunately, guests are not permitted to bring their own horses, mules, or dogs on this adventure.

Additionally, the horses and mules at Cottonwood Pack Station are familiar with one another and work together as a herd. Introducing unfamiliar animals can create unnecessary stress and safety concerns.

Yes! Black bears are native to the Eastern Sierra, although sightings around Cottonwood Pack Station are uncommon due to the regular activity of horses, mules, dogs, and people. I've personally been on multiple horseback trips in this area and have yet to encounter a bear! That said, we are traveling through bear country, so sightings are always possible. We'll follow proper food storage and wildlife safety practices throughout our adventure to help keep both guests and wildlife safe.

Nearest airports are Las Vegas, (4 hrs, drive through Death Valley National Park). And, some people fly into Burbank or Ontario which will be about 3.5 - 4 hours drive to Lone Pine. Fresno and Reno are about 4-4.5 hours drive.

Eastern Sierra Regional Airport in Bishop (BIH), approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes away, and Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH), approximately 2 hours away. Keep in mind that these smaller airports have limited flight options, so I recommend comparing flights and rental car availability before booking.

The pack station is about four hours drive west if you fly into Las Vegas. You would drive through Death Valley national Park, which is quite beautiful. Also, within about 4 to 5 hours of the Pack station is Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Joshua tree.

For fishing there is the well know Owens River and Kern River.

There’s also Mt. Whitney and the Alabama Hills, famous for lots of western movie scenes.

**Our adventure ends on Labor Day weekend which is when the Bishop Tri-County Fair takes place. If you want to do something fun Saturday night, buy tickets to the rodeo! Aside from the entertainment, the views of the Eastern Sierra Mountains from the rodeo grounds are incredible! https://tricountyfair.com/

This is my absolute favorite part of the country as I have spent quite a lot of time exploring this area over the last few years.

From visiting all of the surrounding national parks, enjoying beautiful natural hot springs, attending rodeos and finding incredible hiking trails and scenic drives.

If you would like to make the most of this trip, I would highly recommend spending some more time in the area and I can give you many different ideas of where to go!

Like many service businesses, employees of horse outfitters rely on gratuities for a substantial portion of their total income. The CPS wranglers, cooks, and guides are outstanding at what they do. On a 5 day trip, guests generally tips $150-$250 which is split between the cook and 2 wranglers. Bring cash and give to the cook at the end of the trip and she/he will divide it among the crew.